In the upcoming Path of Exile 2, one of the most anticipated encounters is against Zarokh, the Temporal. As one of the game's major bosses, Zarokh embodies both the power of the temporal realms and the ancient forces that shape reality itself. With a POE 2 Currency complex mechanics suite, devastating attacks, and an intriguing backstory, defeating Zarokh is no small feat. In this comprehensive boss guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Zarokh, the Temporal: from mechanics and phases to strategies, gear, and tips for emerging victorious.

1. Introduction to Zarokh, the Temporal
Zarokh is one of the many powerful beings players will face in Path of Exile 2. Known as the Temporal Entity, Zarokh is a powerful entity that resides within the Chrono-Pit, a dimension that exists beyond time. Throughout the game, players will encounter Zarokh during the "Shifting Sands" act, where the timeline of the world is at risk of unraveling.

The story of Zarokh is steeped in mystery, as it is not entirely clear whether Zarokh is an ancient god-like figure, a time-manipulating creature, or perhaps something entirely different—something both of the world and beyond it. What is known is that Zarokh wields the ability to manipulate time itself, bending it to his will, and is one of the most difficult bosses in the game due to his unique temporal abilities and the intricate mechanics required to defeat him.

2. Zarokh’s Abilities and Attacks
Understanding Zarokh’s abilities is crucial for surviving this encounter. His ability to manipulate time and space creates an experience unlike any other boss in Path of Exile 2. Zarokh’s powers revolve around time dilation, temporal distortions, and chronal ruptures, which complicate his fight and require careful planning and strategy.

Phase 1: The Time-Warped Vanguard
In the first phase of the fight, Zarokh opens the encounter by manipulating time around him, creating what is referred to as the "Time-Warped Vanguard." This is a set of time-manipulated warriors that serve as both his minions and conduits for his power. Players will encounter these warriors, who are capable of delivering devastating melee attacks and causing temporal distortions that can freeze players in place for short periods of time.

Key Attacks in Phase 1:

Temporal Surge: Zarokh will periodically activate a surge of temporal energy, slowing down the players' movement speed and attack speed. This creates an additional layer of difficulty in managing damage output and avoiding his more dangerous attacks.

Chronal Surge: A cone-shaped blast of energy that distorts time around its area of effect, slowing down anyone caught in its path while dealing significant damage.

Time-Bound Warrior Spawns: Zarokh will summon several "Time-Bound Warriors," enemies that deal high melee damage and possess the ability to slow or freeze players. These enemies should be dealt with quickly, as they can overwhelm players if left unchecked.

Strategy for Phase 1:

Focus on Minions: The Time-Bound Warriors are the primary threat in this phase, and eliminating them should be the player’s top priority. Their attacks can be debilitating if allowed to stack up, so keeping your distance or using area-of-effect (AoE) abilities to clear them is critical.

Avoid Time Surge: Zarokh’s Temporal Surge creates areas where movement becomes sluggish, making it harder to dodge his more dangerous attacks. Move out of these areas quickly to avoid being trapped.

Maximize Damage During Lulls: There will be periods during the fight where Zarokh pauses, allowing you to deal damage to him freely. Use these moments wisely to maximize your damage output before the next surge of enemies.

Phase 2: The Chronal Displacement
In Phase 2, Zarokh’s temporal powers intensify. As you deal with his minions, Zarokh will distort the very fabric of time itself, causing Chronal Displacement. This is where the real challenge begins, as Zarokh starts manipulating the time of day, reversing it or fast-forwarding it, and causing the environment around you to shift.

Key Attacks in Phase 2:

Temporal Rifts: Zarokh creates rifts in time that periodically appear around the battlefield. These rifts pulse with chronal energy and deal damage over time (DoT) to anyone standing near them. Additionally, these rifts can cause enemies to enter the battlefield faster, meaning they can alter the flow of combat.

Temporal Collapse: Zarokh will collapse the timeline briefly, causing players to experience a brief stutter in time. This results in a delayed response from both the player and Zarokh’s attacks, making dodging and evading even more difficult.

Rewind of Fate: Zarokh activates a powerful rewind mechanic that temporarily reverses time, restoring health to enemies and undoing the player’s progress. If you’re not fast enough to stop this effect, Zarokh will return to full health, forcing you to deal with his mechanics again from the start.

Strategy for Phase 2:

Watch for Rifts: Temporal Rifts are the biggest threat in this phase. Not only do they deal damage, but they can alter the way enemies spawn. Make sure to destroy them or position yourself far enough away to minimize damage.

Don’t Get Trapped by the Collapse: During Temporal Collapse, be mindful of your surroundings. Use abilities with high mobility to avoid being caught by surprise when the timeline distorts.

Burst Damage During Rewind: Zarokh's Rewind of Fate can be devastating if not properly handled. You must push through this phase quickly, as it allows Zarokh to cheap POE 2 Orbs regenerate. Use burst damage and cooldowns wisely to minimize the time you spend in this phase.